BatteriesInAFlash Blog

Emerging Battery Technologies Offer Positive Energy Outlook

Avel Ureno — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:22:14 +0000

Scientists and researchers have plenty of ideas for innovative battery technologies, but commercializing these plans often proves troublesome and expensive. However; rising energy costs, diminishing fossil fuels, and increasing usage of electronic devices make the need for more efficient batteries critical to economic development. Clean energy from efficient energy storage systems is becoming more important every day. Consumers in the United States operate more than two billion electronic devices with batteries, so scale-ups in production and energy storage capacities offer benefits for communication, businesses, recreational activities, entertainment and transportation. Researchers are making progress in delivering batteries with greater storage capacities, lower costs and greater reliability. 1. Lithium-ion Batteries Electric automobiles use advanced lithium-ion batteries because these cells store more energy in smaller spaces, making hybrid and electric vehicles more efficient. This higher storage capacity helps cars run faster and increases mileage between recharges because lighter energy-cell weights make vehicle more efficient. Smaller versions of lithium-ion batteries power consumer electronics products such as mobile devices, laptop computers and touch-screen phones. 2. Nanotechnology Batteries Lightweight super-capacitors and nano-particles generate electric charges on paper and fabrics, offering the real possibility of powering small electronics and other electrical applications with paper or textile batteries. Inks infused with carbon nano-tubes and silver nano-wires can harness energy in lightweight, bendable batteries. 3. Bacteria Batteries Scientists have researched uses for bacteria that include producing bio-fuels and batteries. Recent engineering advances make the prospect of microbial fuel cells a genuine possibility. 4. Air-fueled Batteries Internal combustion engines in vehicles only need batteries to start the cars and run stereos and air conditioners, but the batteries in electric cars need to run everything. Electric car technology depends on how efficient scientists and engineers can make batteries. Researchers from St. Andrews University, Strathclyde and Newcastle have tested an air-fueled battery that stores 10 times more energy than conventional batteries. o The air-fueled cell uses porous carbon to draw oxygen from the air. o Oxygen from the ambient air replaces other compounds, reducing the need for storage capacity and excess weight. o The resulting sustainable cycle of charge and discharge increases energy storage capacity by 500–1000 percent over lithium batteries. 5. Plastic Solar Cells Solar batteries help to store the energy for solar power collectors so that consumers can power devices when the sun doesn’t shine. Sealed and almost maintenance-free, these batteries produce clean energy without any corrosive fumes and carbon emissions. However, the cost of silicon-based solar cells make these solar systems expensive to build. Research into alternative materials for solar cells focuses on organics and plastics to create flexible, portable solar-collector sheets. o Lower costs of plastics or organic materials would cut investment costs of harnessing clean solar power. o The use of plastics would allow solar power to run diverse applications instead of being limited by rooftop solar panels. o Solar cells and batteries made of thin plastics could power laptops, yard equipment, and other portable devices. Balancing Economic Growth with Environmental Responsibility Clean battery energy reduces ambient pollution in urban environments, cuts fossil fuel usage and strengthens technology that is independent of utility connections. Increasing use of mobile devices, decoupling economic growth from fossil fuels, and generating sustainable energy supplies challenge the engineering skills of scientists, governments and energy industries. Emerging battery technologies offer some of the most positive solutions for supplying future energy needs.

How to Replace a Boat or Jet Ski Battery

Avel Ureno — Thu, 23 May 2013 18:05:46 +0000

A properly charged battery provides the power to crank the engine and run any electrical components while you are out on the water. Although batteries can last for several years with proper maintenance and charging techniques, some avid boaters replace their batteries more often to ensure that their electrical system delivers the best possible performance. This guide provides tips that will help you replace the batteries in your boat or Jet Ski. Select the Right Replacement Battery If you have multiple batteries in your boat, purchase a replacement that is compatible with your current equipment. The best devices for watercraft are deep-cycle batteries because they can discharge up to 80 percent of their stored capacity. Although these devices cost more than their marine counterparts, you can perform a deeper discharge without shortening its life. Generally, marine batteries are rated to discharge 50 percent of their capacity. Avoid mixing old and new batteries because it can reduce the performance of your watercraft. You should also ensure that the amperage rating of the batteries provides the power that you need to start your boat or Jet Ski motor. Remove the Old Battery Prepare a solution with a 50-50 ratio of water and baking soda to neutralize the corrosive effect of battery acid, and wear protective gear to safeguard your eyes and skin. Latex gloves can provide the dexterity that you need while protecting your hands. Locate and open the compartment to access your batteries, and disconnect the earth connector, which is the black terminal with the negative sign. This will eliminate the risk of an electrical short in the system. Next, remove the clamp from the red terminal with the plus sign. Finally, properly dispose of the old batteries. Install the New Battery Clean the terminal clamps with a wire bristle brush, and replace any clamps and cables that are broken, damaged, cracked or frayed. Install the new device in the compartment, and coat the clamps with white lithium grease to repel water and prevent rust. Connect the cables in the reverse order that you removed them from the previous device. Attach the red clamp and then the black one. Secure any newly installed batteries in place, and use a charger designed to perform deep-cycle charges. You can determine the specifications by checking your owner’s manual. A smart charger can help you avoid over- or under-charging errors that can destroy your batteries. When the new unit is fully charged, disconnect the charger and close the battery compartment. Conclusion You should replace your batteries before the end of the warranty period. Some industry sources recommend swapping out the units every two years or sooner. This will ensure that you have the stored electrical power to operate your electronic devices on the water and still have the cranking power that you need to start your engines for the trip back home.

How to Replace a Motorcycle Battery

Avel Ureno — Tue, 21 May 2013 19:01:45 +0000

Every motorcycle owner should learn some basic maintenance skills, and replacing a motorcycle battery is both easy and important. Just like any other vehicle, a motorcycle will require a fresh battery from time to time. Removing the battery is also a necessary step in charging it or placing the motorcycle into storage. Removing a motorcycle battery isn’t difficult. First, you must locate the access point for the battery. In most cases, this will be housed under the seat. You can lift the seat up to access the battery case, which will be secured by a strap. Once the strap is removed, you may disconnect the battery leads. Be sure to remove the negative or black cable first to prevent the chance of sparks or electrical shock. Also remove the sensor if your motorcycle is equipped with one so that it can be cleaned and replaced as necessary. After removing the battery, inspect it for any signs of damage, such as cracking. Be careful not to touch any leaking battery acid with your bare hands as it is very corrosive. Also be sure to clean the connection points of the battery cables to remove any acid or crystal build-up. This will improve the connection with the new battery. Special pads and gels are available to keep the connection points clean and transmit charge more efficiently. Gently place the new battery into the casing. Connect the cables in reverse order, first connecting the red or positive cable, then securing the black or negative cable. Replace the strap securely to keep the battery in place. Once the new battery is snugly in place, you may lower the seat and secure it to its proper position. After replacing a battery, it’s a good idea to test the motorcycle to ensure that everything works as it should. Turn on the ignition to check that the lights come on. Next, start the motorcycle. If it starts with no hesitation, the battery change was successful. If there are any problems starting the motorcycle, double-check the battery connection. If that does not work, there may be a mechanical problem with the bike or its electrical systems, or the battery may not be sufficiently charged. Once your new battery is installed, be sure to dispose of your old battery safely and legally. You may be able to recycle your motorcycle battery through a local battery supply store, recycling center or motorcycle repair shop. In some cases, you may even be paid for the old battery.

How to Replace a Car Battery

Avel Ureno — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:38:52 +0000

Most car owners will likely have experienced a dead battery at an inopportune time. By learning how to change out the device, people can avoid a professional towing service and save quite a bit of money. Most of the required labor can be accomplished by amateurs who lack professional mechanical experience. Wear Protective Gear Because old batteries tend to have corrosive substances on the posts, amateurs should always wear goggles and gloves before they begin. Battery acid can cause redness and irritation of the skin. If the corrosive acid happens to make contact with the skin, the affected area should be flushed with cold water for several seconds. Disconnect the Cables Before they begin, individuals should always turn off the vehicle and set the emergency break. Once the hood has been appropriately propped up, the negative battery cable can be detached first. A battery wrench, which is tailor made for the task, should be used instead of a screwdriver. The positive cable can be detached next. Batteries are nearly always held in their trays with clamps, which can be loosened with the help of a ratchet. Remove the Battery from the Tray Once the battery is no longer attached to the tray, it can be picked up carefully and removed from the vehicle. Because batteries can be deceivingly heavy, they should be gripped with two hands and lifted from their slots in one smooth motion. Defunct batteries can usually be taken to auto centers for proper disposal or recycling. Clean the Tray and the Connectors Before the new car battery is inserted into the slot, individuals should eliminate any corrosion that has developed on the tray. While special cleaning solutions are available, a simple mixture of baking soda and water should also suffice. The cable connectors should also be cleaned with an abrasive brush or post brush. Severely corroded cables can cause a quality battery to fail much earlier than usual. Install the New Battery and Reconnect the Cables With the tray area cleaned to perfection, the new battery can at last be slowly lowered into place. After the clamp has again been attached, individuals might spray the terminals themselves with brand-name anti-corrosion liquid. Following this, amateur mechanics can reattach the positive cable and then the negative cable. As long as the battery itself is held firmly in place, the electrical connection should be plenty strong enough. Check the Battery Periodically After the replacement process has been completed, car owners will want to examine the new battery from time to time. Corrosion can usually be wiped away with a strong brush and a bit of baking soda. In hotter-than-average climates, batteries can begin to decay within just a year or two. By buying quality batteries from reputable retailers, drivers should be able to keep their vehicles in top-notch shape for several years. Many auto parts stores, in fact, sell portable battery test kits. With the proper tools and equipment, amateur mechanics can remove and replace a car battery with ease.

Emergency Preparedness Kit for Your Vehicle

Avel Ureño — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 07:01:43 +0000

Emergencies can strike without warning while you’re out on the road. Severe snowstorms, car accidents and mechanical failures could strand you if you are unprepared. If you don’t carry an emergency kit in your vehicle, you may struggle to take care of yourself and your family in these difficult situations. Before you head out on the road, create your own emergency kit for your vehicle. You only need to gather a few simple items to cover your basic needs. Food and Water Food and water bottles should be the first items to go into your kit. Browse the camping food section at your local sporting goods store for food such as granola bars that won’t expire for years. Temperature Control If you get stuck with a broken car during the summer, you could face unsafe temperatures. Your kit should include a tarp to provide shade during a hot afternoon. A battery-powered fan can also provide you some relief from the heat. In winter conditions you’ll need gear to keep you warm, which include an emergency blanket and gloves. Lighting Spending the night alone in your car can be a frightening experience and an emergency flashlight can provide you with a strong light to guide you. Also be sure to pack some extra flashlight batteries so you don’t get stuck in the darkness. First-Aid Kit A first-aid kit can provide life-saving support in an emergency situation. A basic kit includes bandages, tweezers, pain medication and antiseptic wipes. You can easily build your own kit with an empty plastic pouch and a few useful items from your local drugstore. Be sure to refresh your supplies every few years. Cellphone Charger If you don’t already travel with your cellphone, start the habit immediately. Your cellphone may serve as a vital lifeline if you get in trouble on the road. Make sure to include a car charger for your cellphone in your kit. Packing a solar-powered cellphone charger could also be useful so you can charge your phone even if your car battery dies. Tools for Your Vehicle If you pack the some handy tools for your vehicle, you will be able to fix some minor mechanical issues to avoid getting stranded. For example, you can use jumper cables to revive your car’s battery. You should also pack a variety of small tools including screwdrivers and wrenches. Even if you don’t know how to use these tools, a passing motorist should be able to assist you.

Top Solar Panel Reviews

Avel Ureño — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 07:01:11 +0000

Photovoltaic panels generate usable electricity from sunlight. Although the technology was invented more than half a century ago, poor energy efficiency and high costs prevented it from becoming more popular. Today, high fossil fuel costs and climate change worries are spurring further development in the solar power industry. Manufacturers have greatly improved panel efficiency while lowering costs. While the industry was once dominated by just a few manufacturers, there are now dozens of companies vying for market share. Here are some of the leading photovoltaic manufacturers: Panel efficiency is one of the largest concerns homeowners have when shopping for solar panels. Because they have limited roof space, they want to generate as much power as possible. The Kyocera KD315GX-LPB generates up to 315 watts of electricity per panel, which makes it one of the most efficient panels for its size. With 16 percent solar efficiency, it outperforms every other panel on the market. While it costs slightly more than similarly sized panels, its extra efficiency ends up saving money in the long run. Canadian Solar The Canadian Solar CS6X-305M comes very close to matching the KD315GX-LPB’s performance. The CS6X-305M features 15.9 percent solar efficiency and generates 305 watts of electricity per panel. For those homeowners looking for a high-end panel at a mid-range price, the CS6X-305M can’t be beat. Grape Solar Most photovoltaic manufacturers sell small panels that generate 250-300 watts. The Grape Solar 390W is significantly larger than other panels and weighs about 60 percent more than the CS6X-305M. However, its larger size allows it generate far more electricity than other panels. At 390 watts, Grape Solar’s newest offering is the single most powerful panel available on the market. It comes with a 10 year product warranty, and the panels are also guaranteed to remain 80 percent efficient for at least 25 years. However, the solar industry is rapidly evolving, and many solar manufacturers may not exist 25 years from now. Suntech The next two panels are nearly identical in performance and cost, so they’re essentially interchangeable. The Suntech STP255S-20/Wdb requires almost no maintenance and generates 255 watts per panel. Its 15.7 percent solar efficiency rating is still near the top, and each panel costs just $270. As one of the smaller manufacturers, Suntech doesn’t have the most robust customer service system, and homeowners and solar installers alike have reported experiencing difficulty contacting them. Unlike other manufacturers, Suntech only guarantees 80 percent panel efficiency for 18 years. However, the STP255S-20/Wdb’s performance makes up for some of the company’s shortcomings. Samsung The Samsung LPC250SM is slightly less powerful at 250 watts with a 15.62 percent solar efficiency rating, and it’s more expensive. However, Samsung guarantees 80 percent solar efficiency for a full 25 years. Samsung has been around for decades and manufactures a wide range of consumer electronics and appliances, so the company will likely be around in 20 years to replace and repair defective panels. The LPC250SM is one of the more durable solar panels available. It’s rated to withstand hailstorms and winds exceeding 50 mph, both of which can cause significant damage to more fragile panels.

How to Survive When Faced with a Zombie Apocalypse

Avel Ureño — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 07:01:47 +0000

Do not let movies fool you: Few people will survive a zombie apocalypse armed with merely a stick and their wits. Most of us require preparedness to save our faces – and our brains. Living through a zombie influx entails a basic survival kit, a strong defense strategy and an evacuation plan. Survival Kit The Centers for Disease Control assure us they are prepared to work diligently in the face of a zombie apocalypse. They do, however, recommend you create a survival kit to keep you going while CDC experts devise a vaccination and measures to control transmission of the disease. You can find a list of essential supplies at the CDC blog post entitled “Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse.” The CDC’s list contains standard emergency items. We have expanded the list to include items we consider indispensable. Defense Strategy If you are staying put, fortify your location. Build walls using sturdy logs, thick boards or, if available, an immense Lego collection, and fashion a drawbridge entrance. Zombies, although persistent, are notoriously senseless; they neither climb walls nor open doors. Practice with an array of projectiles, points and sharp edges. Crossbows, long swords and spears are ideal weapons, but any object will suffice if wielded properly. Inconclusive research suggests bear spray might distract zombies long enough for you to escape them. Evacuation Plan You must have evacuation plans in case your safe location becomes swamped with zombies. Ideally, you have allies with whom you can escape if the need arises. If possible, outfit your group with two cargo vans to transport people unable to drive, supplies and gas. Other than the vans’ drivers, everyone capable should drive all-terrain vehicles. Equip all transport with maps pinpointing rendezvous locations, communication devices and many containers of fuel. The amount of fuel needed to flee zombies is incredible. The all-terrain vehicles in an evacuation plan serve two purposes. First, ATVs provide great maneuverability; you can dodge easily around stray zombies during your evacuation. Second, if you find a crowd of zombies, ATVs are the perfect little vehicle for zombie jousting. Rev up, run them through with a lance – okay, a large sharpened stick – and toast them over a bonfire. Rules to live by are an essential tool to effectively survive. Besides with out rules and guidelines we are no better than the zombies who disregard any and all rules. Learn all the rules and dont get caught with your pants down Last Ditch Effort When Faced with a Zombie Apocalypse Run; specifically, run faster than the zombies behind you.

Solar Power Comes In Many Forms and Functions

Avel Ureño — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:50:58 +0000

Solar panels may get all the press when it comes to solar technologies, but scientists are coming up with other novel ways to harness sunlight. The following solar gadgets use nothing but the sun for power: Portable Chargers Most solar panels are over a square meter in size, and they can weigh up to 35 kilograms. They are anything but portable, but scientists have been shrinking them down and making them more efficient. Now, consumers can charge their electronics while on the go. A variety of portable chargers are now available, the most powerful of which can generate up to 15 watts of electricity in full sunlight. That’s enough to fully charge a phone or laptop battery within a few hours. Solar Chargers are good for charging devices like: Toilets Often times it can be easy to forget that not everyone has access to adequate plumbing. Millions of people still use latrines, and many lack even the most rudimentary sanitation. How can humanitarian organizations possibly provide toilets to millions of people? Until a few years ago, such a project would have required millions of dollars in new infrastructure and decades to complete. However, thanks to the Gates Foundation, that dream is about to become a reality. By harnessing sunlight, these toilets reuse the same water over and over, eliminating the need for plumbing. Solid waste can be turned into fertilizer, and the toilets can even produce hydrogen as a separate fuel source. Emergency Cookers A strong hurricane or natural disaster can knock out electricity to towns for weeks or even months. If this happens, many people would be left unable to cook food and provide meals for their families. Fortunately, emergency solar cookers can be used to cook meat and boil water. These inexpensive devices use solar energy to heat up cooking pots, and can be set up in seconds. Trash Cans Trash cans help keep cities clean by allowing residents to conveniently dispose of waste. Photovoltaic trash cans have the added benefit of helping the environment by compacting garbage using solar energy. When these solar trash cans fill up, they alert local waste management companies so that they can be emptied out. By using these trash cans, cities stand to save thousands of dollars a year while also cutting down on CO2 emissions from garbage trucks. Solar Windows One glaring problem for solar panels is their appearance. They take up space on rooftops, and they look even worse when installed in yards. Fortunately, homeowners will soon be able to install photovoltaic film on their window panes. While less efficient than traditional panels, film doesn’t take up any additional space. It’s essentially invisible, and installation costs should be negligible compared to traditional panels.

How To Use Cables To Set Up A Solar Panel Array

Avel Ureño — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 07:01:39 +0000

Solar energy provides many benefits such as lower power bills, sustainability and emergency preparedness. It is also beneficial to the environment. Once a homeowner installs panels, he or she will have a continuous source of power as long as the sun is in the sky. About Solar Panels Most panels are made from crystalline silicon and gallium arsenide. The materials collect sunlight and transform it into electricity. To store the energy produced during the daylight hours, a battery must be connected. In addition, a charge controller will prevent the battery from acquiring too much power during the day. Once homeowners install their energy-gathering panels, they can store the energy for later use or feed it back into the panel, which will permit them to sell energy to the power company. During the installation, be sure to add an inverter to adapt the panel’s direct current to an 120-volt AC current. Installation A solar panel setup requires several products including a solar panel array, charge controller and DC electrical wire. Place the array in a sunny area to ensure that it receives the most sunlight possible. Also, the panels feature a mounting system, which allows homeowners to place them on a roof or the ground. During the installation, align the panels at a parallel angle to create a common output. The next step is to connect the output cable to the system’s charge controller. In addition, the homeowner will need to use an electrical wire to create a safe connection to the direct current. Be sure to place the controller section by the inverter or the battery bank. Battery Bank Construction To store energy, be sure to build a battery bank that contains the same amount of voltage as the panel output. Consider creating a bank with two batteries that are connected in a series because the setup will double each battery’s voltage. In addition, attach the negative terminal to the positive terminal of the other power source. With this arrangement, homeowners can make a bank of the voltage that they need from 6, 12, or 24-volt batteries. Keep in mind that the production of most solar arrays is 24 and 48 volts. Controller Connection With battery cables, attach the charge controller to the system’s battery terminals. Homeowners will also need to join the battery bank to an inverter with battery cables. Be sure to purchase cables that are the same size. If the intent is to send the stored solar energy back to the grid, then attach the charge controller to the inverter. In addition, connect the inverter’s output leads to the home’s hot and neutral supply lugs. Unless the homeowner is a licensed electrician, he or she should consider hiring one for this part of the installation. Moreover, a professional can review the system to confirm whether it has an automatic transfer switch. If it doesn’t, then he or she can install one. The device stops the panels from energizing the power line when the homeowner turns off the main power source. Conclusion By installing solar panels, homeowners can contribute positively to the environment. Furthermore, they will reduce their power bills and ensure that their home retains power during outages.

Techniques to Extend Your Car Batteries Life

Avel Ureño — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 07:01:34 +0000

When your car battery is working properly, it can be easy to forget about maintaining it. However, giving car batteries regular attention will help them last longer and can save you money in the long term. It is especially important to maintain car batteries during the winter months because colder temperatures cause them to work harder. There are four parts that you will need to maintain to help prevent battery failure, which include adding water and assessing the alternator as well as cleaning the battery case and clamps. Water Care Your car battery requires water to function properly. When the weather is hot, be sure to check the water supply each month. During your water reviews, assess the liquid levels through the vent cap opening, and if it is lower than the gauge, then fill it with regular water. If you notice the battery’s water levels are frequently low, then you may consider asking your mechanic to locate the source of the problem. For instance, the battery may have a short in the electrical system or alternator issues. Battery Case The battery case requires care as it is an essential protection element for your car’s battery. As the container and terminals become covered with moisture, dirt and grease, the grime can cause the battery’s electricity to seep out of the case. To clean the container, use a slow stream of water. However, be sure to avoid the case’s vent holes. You can also use a stiff wire brush to get rid of the battery case’s corrosion. Furthermore, a cloth dipped in a baking soda mixture is ideal for scrubbing the exterior of the case, and the solution will neutralize the battery’s acid. Be sure to clean the vent caps. However, avoid splashing water or the baking soda mixture into the terminals and the cells. Cable Clamps If your car battery’s cable clamps become corroded, then the decomposition can cause the battery to fail. Specifically, the corrosion triggers failure by preventing a power connection. When corrosion is permitted to remain on the clamp, it can eat through the mechanism and set off a complete power failure. You can remove clamp corrosion with water and a wire brush. After it is clean, you should coat the clamps with a lubricant such as petroleum, Vaseline or silicone. If the clamp has too much damage for cleaning, then you can replace the device. Alternator Belt The alternator belt may begin to stretch, which will cause it to slip. When slippage occurs, the alternator is unable to produce the standard amount of electricity to recharge the car battery. Be sure to ask your mechanic to review the belt when you take your vehicle in for servicing or a tune-up. Loss of Power Keep an eye on your car, and if you notice that your vehicle’s lights are dim or that your car is starting more slowly than usual, then have a car service member check your battery’s condition. He or she will inspect the battery by assessing the cells to make sure that they have a full charge.When you properly maintain your car’s battery, you will likely extend the unit’s longevity and prevent inconvenient failures.